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Recent incidents involving lithium batteries on flights have prompted regulators and airlines to implement stricter safety measures. The FAA recommends better passenger education and improved firefighting protocols, while TSA advises passengers to pack lithium devices in carry-on luggage. Dubai-based Emirates plans to ban charging power banks onboard from October 1.
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The ongoing US government shutdown, now nearly three weeks old, risks disrupting Thanksgiving travel due to staffing shortages at airports. Flight delays and cancellations are increasing, with air traffic controllers and TSA workers working unpaid. The deadlock in Congress over funding continues, with no resolution in sight.
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Amid the US government shutdown, a political video by Rep. Noem urging reopening efforts has been rejected by multiple airports across the country. Many cite legal and policy concerns, including violations of the Hatch Act and local regulations, leading to the video not being broadcast at several major airports. The shutdown has caused widespread flight delays and staffing issues.
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Major US airports, including JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, have refused to display a political video from Kristi Noem at TSA checkpoints. The video criticizes Democrats over the government shutdown and claims TSA staff are working unpaid. The airports cite policies against partisan content, escalating tensions over political messaging in public spaces.
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A 28-year-old Indian national, Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli, was arrested after attacking two 17-year-old passengers with a fork on a flight from Chicago to Germany. The flight was diverted to Boston, where he was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon. He does not have lawful US immigration status.
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Congresswoman Nancy Mace is embroiled in a dispute following an airport incident where she was reportedly irate and confrontational with security staff. She claims the report is fabricated and politically motivated, while critics, including fellow lawmakers, condemn her behavior. The story highlights ongoing security and political tensions in South Carolina.
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Recent policy changes by US agencies and businesses restrict transgender individuals' access and rights. TSA has barred trans officers from pat-down duties, and King Spa updated its policies following a lawsuit, reflecting ongoing legal and political debates over gender identity and public spaces.
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Apple has introduced a digital passport feature for iPhone and Apple Watch users, allowing them to store and present their U.S. passports at over 250 domestic airports. The feature is limited to domestic travel and does not replace physical passports for international crossings. Setup involves scanning the passport and verifying identity through selfies and head movements.
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Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without a compliant ID will pay a $45 fee to verify their identity at U.S. airports. The fee applies to those flying domestically without a Real ID or accepted alternative, with verification valid for 10 days. The change aims to recover costs and encourage compliance.